Journal of Literary Criticism

Journal of Literary Criticism

Semiotic Analysis of Text-Image Interaction in Ashkan Rahgozar's Graphic Novels

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Associate professor in persian language and literature, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Neyshabur, Neyshabur, Iran.
2 Master's degree in Persian Language and Literature, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Neyshabur, Neyshabur, Iran.
10.22034/jlc.2025.518872.1724
Abstract
Graphic novels, as a modern form of multimodal narratives, create a complex intersemiotic structure by simultaneously employing two sign systems: verbal and visual. In this narrative form, the interaction between image and text not only possesses aesthetic dimensions but also establishes specific signification mechanisms. This study utilizes Peircean semiotics framework and qualitative content analysis to examine the interaction mechanisms of textual and visual sign systems in Ashkan Rahgozar's graphic novels. The research corpus comprises six volumes of Rahgozar's works: "Arshia" (Volumes 1 & 2), "Tolu'-e Jamshid" (Volumes 1 & 2), and "Ghurub-e Jamshid" (Volumes 1 & 2). Peirce's focus on semiosis and the interaction between signifier and signified through three types of signs provides the analytical framework for this study. Findings indicate that textual and visual codes in Rahgozar's works interact complementarily, creating an integrated structure with multilayered narration. Iconic elements in illustrations, indexical narrative cues in actions, and cultural symbols in text all contribute to creating a coherent visual-narrative experience.
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Volume 10, Issue 20
September 2026
Pages 357-307

  • Receive Date 24 April 2025
  • Revise Date 09 June 2025
  • Accept Date 22 July 2025